Alex Song has struggled to break into the Barcelona side this season (Picture: AP)

Manchester United could be set to make a January move for out-of-favour Barcelona man Alex Song.

The former Arsenal midfielder has struggled to hold down a place in the starting line-up at the Nou Camp and is ready to hand in a transfer request, according to reports in Spain.

David Moyes and United are believed to be big admirers of the 26-year-old, with the Scot still keen to bolster his midfield after several failed approaches for players over the summer.

Despite the deadline day arrival of Marouane Fellaini from Everton, Moyes is still believed to be keen on signing an out-and-out defensive midfielder, especially given United’s lack of presence in that area in the opening stages of this season.

Song has made just three appearances this term under new boss Tata Martino, most recently coming on as an 89th-minute substitute in his side’s 1-0 victory over Celtic in the Champions League on Tuesday night.